Mayor Brandon M. Scott announced that Kerry R. Watson has joined the Mayor’s Office as Deputy Chief of Staff. As Deputy Chief of Staff, Watson will report directly to Chief of Staff John David “J.D.” Merrill and support the broader Chief of Staff’s office portfolio, with an initial focus on supporting our government relations team.
“Kerry brings extensive experience to this role, from his time with the Orioles to his public service in Prince George’s County, but most importantly, he brings a real commitment to our city,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “I’m excited to have Kerry join our team as we continue to drive historic progress on public safety, housing, youth investment, and so much more. Our city’s renaissance is here, and we have a great team moving us forward.”
Kerry R. Watson brings more than three decades of experience across government, public affairs, business, and public safety to City Hall. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President for Public Affairs for the Baltimore Orioles. Watson previously served as Vice President of Regional Government Affairs at MGM Resorts International.
His professional experience prior to MGM Resorts International includes time as a Government Relations Consultant at Alexander and Cleaver and as a Senior Advisor and Intergovernmental Affairs Liaison for Prince George’s County Executive, following a 20-year career as a Prince George’s County Police Officer. Watson holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Maryland and serves on numerous boards, including as Chair of the Downtown Partnership Board of Directors and the Board of the National Aquarium.


